It is in fact possible to straighten your crooked pearly whites with a set of porcelain veneers – as long as the misalignment is minor. Now, that probably put a million more questions into your head. A lot of them can be answered by explaining what porcelain veneers are and how they work, so sit tight. More details to come after the review!
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Simply put, porcelain veneers are custom-crafted shells that are adhered to the front face of your teeth. Your dentist will consult with you to determine the perfect color and size for your veneers, because they act kind of like wallpaper. Underneath the veneer might be chips, cracks, or a smaller tooth, but all the mirror and your acquaintances will see is the flawless porcelain cover.
How Do They Straighten Teeth?
As you might suspect, porcelain veneers don’t straighten teeth in the traditional sense. Instead, they make your teeth appear straighter. Remember, these shells are fixed to the front of your teeth. If your misalignment is minor, the crooked angles can be concealed, hidden from onlookers by some artful and smart custom-crafting.
Are Porcelain Veneers Worth It?
In cases of small gaps, uneven spaces, and slight tilting, porcelain veneers could very well be worth the treatment time. Orthodontics can take anywhere from ten weeks to one full year to straighten teeth, while porcelain veneers can be adhered in as little as two visits. They’re a far less involved option for less severe dental flaws.
Are Porcelain Veneers Safe?
Absolutely, though it’s a fair question! To place your veneers aesthetically, your dentist will have to remove a tiny sliver of your enamel. Since enamel is responsible for protecting the softer layers of your teeth, this worries some people. However, your new porcelain shield will effectively replace the removed enamel layer. They’re made from highly durable materials, so you likely won’t experience an increased risk to your oral health.
How Do I Know if I’m a Good Candidate?
By talking to your dentist! As a professional, they’re the only ones who can tell you for certain whether porcelain veneers will help your teeth appear straighter. They can also answer more specific questions that involve your unique oral situation, so it’s always a good idea to consult with them before committing to treatment. They’ll help you find the best way to achieve your smile goals.
About the Author
Dr. Mihran Asinmaz is a member of the prestigious American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, meaning you can trust him with all your cosmetic dentistry needs! He also has a caring nature and listens to his patients’ goals attentively. Dr. Asinmaz wants to help his patients achieve their dream smile and will diligently work with you to ensure you’ll be happy with your treatment results. To contact his office, call 561-640-9200.